The New Fabric Magic Book

In Fabric Magic, designer and decorator Melanie Paine reveals an infectious enthusiasm for her subject. While her other publications have concentrated on curtains, Melanie now expands her scope by exploring bedding, soft furnishing and other coverings as well, in a comprehensive revised edition. Setting out a diverse range of suggestions and illustrations, all geared towards encouraging the reader to experiment with adventurous colours, patterns and textures, she engagingly admits that some of her favourite effects--such as the free "movement" of rip-stop nylon--have been achieved by happy accident rather than design. Each chapter begins with informative introductory text and a series of inspiring photographs, followed by detailed instructions on how to achieve the desired effect. Aiming her book at a wide range of skill levels, Melanie includes useful advice so that pitfalls such as not measuring the window properly or cutting off the string from the heading tape may be avoided! Jargon and sophisticated techniques are demystified as she provides a glossary and lists of useful suppliers, further reading and other tips. At the same time, she also makes it clear when corners cannot be cut and the professionals should be called in--to install curtain tracking, for instance. Her advice-- "enjoy yourself"! --Fiona MurphyRead More